5 Best Places to Catch The Northern Lights in 2024

If witnessing the breath-taking dance of the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, then make 2024 the year to make it all happen

Scientists have reportedly predicted a surge of aurora activity this year, suggesting that we may just see some of the best Northern Lights displays in 20 years, and beyond the expected regions in the Arctic Circle.

Travel to any of Singapore Airlines’ 14 European destinations, and use them as convenient transit points on your journey to Iceland, Finland, Sweden, and more. To maximise your chances, plan your trip between November and April, which is said to be the peak of the solar cycle where vivid and intense displays might be spotted.

And if you’re willing to spare no expense for this trip of your dreams, take your pick from our list of stunning hotel recommendations or locations where you can watch the magic unfold from the comfort of your private sanctuary. Pack your winter gear, book your flight, and get ready for an adventure you will remember for a lifetime!

Additional tip: Consider going on guided tours led by local experts and consider using dedicated Northern Lights apps to maximise your chances of witnessing this natural wonder.

 

1. Reykjavik, Iceland:

Best place to watch the Northern Lights: ION Adventure Hotel

 

admire the stunning aurora borealis from ION Adventure Hotel pool
Credits: laa0621

 

Known as the land of fire and ice, Iceland is a Northern Lights paradise. Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, provides you with a convenient gateway to the country’s stunning natural landscapes.

From here you can embark on guided tours to the remote countryside to witness the aurora borealis in all its glory. Chances of catching the Northern Lights in Iceland are very high, thanks to an 8-month aurora season, long hours of darkness during winter, and low light pollution throughout most of the island.

ION Adventure hotel is set against a backdrop of lava fields near Thingvellir National Park. The Northern Lights Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing you to enjoy unobstructed panoramic views of the surrounding Icelandic landscape, including the potential spectacle of the Northern Lights. The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a geothermal hot tub where you can witness the Northern Lights from, and a Northern Lights wake-up call service.

Given its location away from major light pollution, the ION Adventure Hotel provides an excellent opportunity to witness the Northern Lights dancing across the Icelandic sky.

2. Tromsø, Norway:

Best place to watch the Northern Lights: Prestvannet Lake

 

the northern lights over the Prestvannet lakes and mountains in Norway

 

Tromsø, Norway, is where winter dreams come to life, especially for those chasing the mesmerising Northern Lights. Nestled within the Arctic Circle, this city offers front-row seats to the celestial dance of the aurora borealis, with Prestvannet Lake being the crown jewel among viewing spots.

Picture standing by Prestvannet Lake, set on Tromsø Island, witnessing nature’s very own light show dancing against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Just a brisk 20-minute walk from downtown, this lake isn’t just accessible; it’s an invitation to the heart of winter wonder. You get the magic without the mileage, making your Northern Lights experience not just breathtaking, but eco-friendly too.

And the fun doesn’t stop with Aurora watching. Prestvannet Lake also turns into a winter playground, with ice skaters gliding under the glowing sky. Around the lake, benches and picnic tables invite you to cosy up with a winter picnic or share a romantic moment under the stars.

What’s even better? This natural spectacle at Prestvannet Lake doesn’t cost a dime. Forget booking tours or paying fees; simply bundle up to stay warm, pack a hot drink and let the night’s adventure begin.

 

3. Rovaniemi, Finland:

Best place to watch the Northern Lights: Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort

 

Credits: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/josh.bonifacio">josh.bonifacio </a>

 

Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, offers a magical Northern Lights experience. The city’s northern location and dedication to preserving its natural environment make it an ideal spot for aurora hunting.

Nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort offers an extraordinary stay with its iconic glass igloos. These unique accommodations provide a front-row seat to the mesmerising dance of the Northern Lights. Crafted from special thermal glass, the igloos offer clear, frost-free views of the Arctic sky, creating an immersive experience under the celestial display. Beyond the allure of the auroras, guests can enjoy modern comforts within the igloos, including a cozy bed, private bathroom, and a small kitchenette. The resort’s strategic location minimises light pollution, maximising the chances of witnessing the aurora borealis in all its splendour.

 

4. Kiruna, Sweden:

Best place to watch the Northern Lights: Abisko National Park or Icehotel

watch the dancing of aurora borealis in the sky of Abisko National Park, Sweden

 

Kiruna is a remote and beautiful location in Sweden known for its stunning displays of the Northern Lights. The auroras can be seen for long durations in wonderland of natural beauty, making it a must-visit for any traveller looking for an unforgettable experience.

The Abisko National Park and the Icehotel are two popular options for tourists who want to enjoy the Northern Lights in Kiruna. The Abisko National Park is a great place to watch the Northern Lights due to its unique location. The park is in a valley surrounded by mountains, which shields it from much of the light pollution that can impact the visibility of the auroras. This makes it one of the best places in the world to witness this natural phenomenon.

The Abisko National Park is also home to the Aurora Sky Station, which is a must-visit attraction for anyone who wants to learn more about the Northern Lights. Here, you can experience the auroras up close and personal and enjoy various activities, including dog sledding, snowmobiling, and skiing.

The Icehotel is another great option. The hotel is constructed entirely of ice and snow, making it a unique base to experience the Northern Lights. The Icehotel has a range of rooms and suites that are designed by different artists, each with its distinctive style and theme. The hotel also has a bar made entirely of ice, where you can enjoy a drink or two while watching the Northern Lights.

 

5. Fairbanks, Alaska, USA:

Best place to watch the Northern Lights: Chena Hot Springs Resort or Borealis Basecamp

 

 

admire the northern lights dancing in the sky  in Alaska's Borealis Base Camp
Credits: lifetothephil

 

For those looking to explore the Northern Lights in the Americas, Fairbanks in Alaska is an excellent choice. The clear, dark skies of Alaska provide a perfect backdrop for this celestial spectacle.

Nestled in the Alaskan wilderness, Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a rustic yet comfortable setting for the Northern Lights viewing. Relax in the outdoor hot springs while enjoying the Auroras lighting up the Arctic sky.

Or, witness it from your cosy igloo at Borealis Basecamp, where the concave-shaped windows were created specially to appreciate the night sky. Helpful staff are always on hand to give you tips on facing the right direction to catch the lights.

 

 

 

 

Inspired to plan the trip of a lifetime? As a KrisFlyer member, you’ll earn KrisFlyer miles when you fly on Singapore Airlines and Scoot, or you can choose to redeem your KrisFlyer miles for that unforgettable vacation.

Not a KrisFlyer member yet? Sign up with the promo code KF800 to enjoy 800 KrisFlyer miles as well as all that our rewards programme has to offer.

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